Car accidents are a leading cause of injury and death in the United States. According to data, around 227,000 people die from unintentional injuries in the U.S. every year, with over 44,000 of those deaths stemming from motor vehicle crashes. Being in an auto collision can lead to various injuries, ranging from minor to life-threatening. Knowing the most common injuries in Alabama after a crash can help you be prepared.
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Seeking Legal Help After Car Accidents
If you get injured in an auto accident, don’t delay contacting an attorney. Attorney Keith Belt, one of the best Montgomery car accident lawyers in Alabama, states: “Protect your rights every step of the way with the help of an attorney. They can help you determine fault and liability, get the best medical care, deal with insurance companies, and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries. Though no amount of money can undo an injury, it can help you get the care and support you need to heal.”
Head and Brain Injuries
Head and brain injuries are some of the most serious car accident injuries. Of the thousands of crash injuries every year in the USA, approximately 15% are concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
Concussions often cause headaches, confusion, memory problems, and nausea. Symptoms can last for days or weeks. TBIs range from mild to severe, with severe injuries often causing disability or death. Immediate medical care is critical for head and brain injuries. Working with an attorney can help collision victims get compensation for long-term care for these traumatic injuries.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Caused by a Car Wreck
Experiencing a collision can also lead to psychological injuries. According to a meta-analysis, around 22% of car accident survivors develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This condition causes flashbacks, anxiety, insomnia, and other debilitating symptoms. PTSD requires therapy and treatment to overcome. An attorney can fight to get a settlement that covers the victim’s therapy costs and emotional damages.
Whiplash Injury as a Result of an Auto Accident
One of the most frequent injuries in an auto collision is whiplash. This common neck injury affects around 3 million Americans every year. Whiplash occurs when the head jerks suddenly back and forth, straining the ligaments and tendons in the neck. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, shoulder pain, and upper back discomfort.
Treatment for whiplash may include pain medication, immobilizing the neck with a brace, physical therapy, massage therapy, and chiropractic adjustments. Lingering pain and stiffness can make daily activities difficult. Working with a lawyer helps whiplash victims recover appropriate compensation for medical costs and lost wages.
Back Injuries After Crashes
Back injuries are also very common after crashes, especially if the victim’s torso is thrown forward and backward suddenly. Common back injuries include herniated discs, muscle strains, compression fractures, and sciatic nerve pain or numbness. Severe back injuries may require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
As with other collision injuries, it’s wise to consult a car accident attorney after a back injury. Legal help ensures you have the financial means to cover medical expenses, missed work, and ongoing care. An attorney can also facilitate recovery of damages if the back injury causes partial or total disability.
Broken Bones are the Most Common Injuries After Collisions
From wrists and arms to ankles and hips, broken bones are another frequent injury in crashes. Any sudden impact can break bones, especially if the victims' hands or feet hit the dashboard or windshield. Broken bones often require surgery, casts, physical therapy, and time off work to heal. Working with a lawyer helps the injured get compensation that covers these costs.
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